How to lock iPad orientation in iOS 4.2

The iPad orientation lock used to be controlled by a switch on the side of the device, since iOS 4.2 the orientation lock switch has been changed to a mute switch, which functions just like the iPhone and iPod touch. So now what? What if you want your iPad screen locked into horizontal or vertical mode?

How to Lock Screen Orientation in iPad iOS 4.2

Here is how you lock the iPad screen orientation:

• Hold the iPad in the orientation you want locked (vertical or horizontal)
• Double-click on the Home button at the bottom of the iPad to bring up the task switcher
• Swipe right on the task switcher to bring up the iPod and iPad controls, and the orientation lock button will be located on the left
• Tap on the orientation lock button (see screenshot above) to lock the current orientation in place
• Hit the home button to exit

Locking the screen orientation through software like this is easy once you know how to do it, but from a user experience perspective it can be a little confusing to change the functionality of a hardware button after it’s been established. Just get into the new habit and all will be well.